Electrostatic atomizing apparatus and electrostatic atomizing method

ABSTRACT

An electrostatic atomizing apparatus includes a main body portion, a container, a first air flow path, a second air flow path, an electrostatic atomization unit, and an air flow generation unit. The container is detachable from the main body portion, is capable of storing a liquid, and includes a first ventilation hole and a second ventilation hole. The first air flow path includes a first end that includes an air suction port, and a second end that connects to the first ventilation hole. The second air flow path includes a third end that connects to the second ventilation hole, and a fourth end that includes an air exhaust port. The electrostatic atomization unit is disposed on the second air flow path. The air flow generation unit generates an air flow that causes air to flow through the first air flow path, through the container, and through the second air flow path.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims benefit to U.S. provisional application No.62/734,257, filed on Sep. 21, 2018. The entire disclosure of U.S.provisional application 62/734,257 is hereby incorporated herein byreference.

BACKGROUND Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to an electrostatic atomizing apparatusthat produces charged particulate water, and an electrostatic atomizingmethod thereof.

Background

In the related art, a method is known for producing charged particulatewater by applying high voltage to an electrode on which water is held,and using that charged particulate water to inactivate pollen antigens,molds, fungi, viruses, and the like. In this method, the water in theair is electrostatically atomized to produce charged particulate waterhaving a particle size of 3 to 50 nm and the charged particulate waterare reacted with any of pollen antigens, molds, fungi, and viruses toinactivate the pollen antigens, molds, fungi, viruses, and the like (forexample, Japanese Patent No. 4877410).

SUMMARY

Atmospheres at high altitudes of 10 km are low humidity environments.Cabins of aircraft flying at high altitudes are ventilated byintroducing outside air. The cabin humidity is affected by the outsidehumidity, resulting in low humidity states such as, for example, arelative humidity of 10 degrees. A predetermined humidity is needed forelectrostatic atomization.

The present disclosure provides an electrostatic atomizing apparatus anda method that are effective for electrostatic atomization even in lowhumidity environments.

The electrostatic atomizing apparatus according to the presentdisclosure includes a main body portion, a container, a first air flowpath, a second air flow path, an electrostatic atomization unit, and anair flow generation unit. The container is detachable from the main bodyportion, is capable of storing liquid, and includes a first ventilationhole and a second ventilation hole. The first air flow path includes afirst end that includes an air suction port, and a second end thatconnects to the first ventilation hole. The second air flow pathincludes a third end that connects to the second ventilation hole, and afourth end that includes an air exhaust port. The electrostaticatomization unit is disposed on the second air flow path. The air flowgeneration unit generates an air flow that causes air to flow throughthe first air flow path, through the container, and through the secondair flow path.

The electrostatic atomizing method according to the present disclosureincludes introducing air that was taken in through an air suction portinto a container that store a liquid, humidifying the air by causing theair to flow through the container, exhausting the humidified air fromthe container, producing charged particulate water by causing water inthe humidified air to condensate on an electrode and applying voltage tothe electrode, and exhausting air containing the charge particulatewater through an air discharge port.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates the basic configuration of an electrostatic atomizingapparatus according to Embodiment 1;

FIG. 2 is a plan view of a duct member according to Embodiment 1;

FIG. 3 illustrates a state in which a water container is attached to theelectrostatic atomizing apparatus according to Embodiment 1;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the electrostaticatomizing apparatus of FIG. 3 from another direction;

FIG. 5 illustrates a state in which the water container is removed fromthe electrostatic atomizing apparatus according to Embodiment 1;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the electrostaticatomizing apparatus of FIG. 5 from another direction;

FIG. 7 illustrates a water container to be attached to an electrostaticatomizing apparatus according to Embodiment 2;

FIG. 8 is a plan view of the water container according to Embodiment 2;

FIG. 9A illustrates a lid of the water container of Embodiment 2 in anopen state;

FIG. 9B illustrates the lid of the water container of Embodiment 2 in aclosed state;

FIG. 10A illustrates the water container according to Embodiment 2 in anormal state;

FIG. 10B illustrates the water container according to Embodiment 2 in atilted state;

FIG. 11 illustrates a water container according to a ModificationExample of Embodiment 2; and

FIG. 12 illustrates a water container according to another ModificationExample of Embodiment 2.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Next, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detailwhile referencing the drawings. Note that, in some cases, unnecessarilydetailed descriptions are foregone. For example, detailed descriptionsof well-known matters and redundant descriptions of configurations andconstituents that are substantially the same may be foregone.

Note that the following description and attached drawings are providedfor the purpose of enabling a person skilled in the art to comprehendthe present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the mattersrecited in the claims.

In the following description, for convenience, the Z-axis direction isreferred to as the “up-down direction”, the Z-axis positive side isreferred to as “up”, and the Z-axis negative side is referred to as“down.” However, the attachment mode of the electrostatic atomizingapparatus 1 is not limited thereto and various attachment modes arepossible. Unless otherwise stated, the Z-axis negative direction may notindicate the direction of gravity.

In the following embodiments, the term “electrostatic atomization” meanscooling a water application electrode and causing the water in the airto condensate on the water application electrode to produce chargedparticulate water. There are two types of water application electrodes,namely a direct type and an electrode cooling type that does not requirewater to be supplied. In the following description of the embodiments,an electrode cooling type electrostatic atomizing method is used.

1. Embodiment 1

1-1 Configuration

1-1-1 Configuration of Electrostatic Atomizing Apparatus 1

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the electrostatic atomizing apparatus 1includes a main body portion 1 a, a water container 10, a first air flowpath 210, a second air flow path 220, a duct member 30, an electrostaticatomization unit 70, a control unit 80, and a fan 90. The electrostaticatomizing apparatus 1 further includes a container detachment mechanism50 (described later).

The main body portion 1 a is a housing and accommodates the watercontainer 10, the first air flow path 210, the second air flow path 220,the electrostatic atomization unit 70, the control unit 80, and the fan90.

The water container 10 (example of the container), includes a containermain body 10 a that holds water. The water container 10 includes a firstventilation hole 11 and a second ventilation hole 12 in a top surface(surface on the Z-axis positive side) of the container main body 10 a.The first ventilation hole 11 forms a path for introducingnon-humidified air into the container main body 10 a. The secondventilation hole 12 forms a path for sending humidified air from thecontainer main body 10 a to the electrostatic atomization unit 70. Thefirst ventilation hole 11 for introducing air and the second ventilationhole 12 for sending air are located at two locations in an upper portion101 (FIG. 3) of the container main body 10 a. The ventilation holes 11and 12 are open in the same direction. The ventilation holes 11 and 12are located in the upper portion 101 of the container main body 10 a sothat the water W in the container main body 10 a does not spill.Additionally, the ventilation holes 11 and 12 are formed sufficientlysmall so that the water W in the container main body 10 a does notspill. In one example, the size of the ventilation holes 11 and 12 isfrom 0.1 cm² to 2 cm². A configuration is possible in which theventilation holes 11 and 12 are each formed from a plurality of smallholes.

Moreover, the upper portion 101 of the container main body 10 a may beimplemented as a sealable lid. A user can remove the water container 10from the electrostatic atomizing apparatus 1 and open the upper portion101 of the container main body 10 a when replenishing the water W in thecontainer main body 10 a.

The first ventilation hole 11 and the second ventilation hole 12 areopen in the same direction and are provided in the top side of thecontainer main body 10 a. As a result of this configuration, the risk ofwater splashing in the aircraft, which constantly vibrates and hasdifficulty maintaining a horizontal posture, is reduced.

The water container 10 further includes a humidification filter 13 inthe container main body 10 a. The humidification filter 13 is erected(in the middle in the X-axis direction) between the first ventilationhole 11 and the second ventilation hole 12. Due to this arrangement, thehumidification filter 13 is able to efficiently supply water to the lowhumidity air that is introduced from outside, and high humidity air canbe produced.

The humidification filter 13 (example of the humidifier) humidifies lowhumidity air that flows through the first ventilation hole. In oneexample, the humidification filter 13 is a corrugated humidificationfilter that absorbs and holds the water held in the container main body10 a. In this state, low humidity air is passed through the gaps in thehumidification filter 13 and, as a result, the water vaporizes from thesurfaces in the humidification filter 13, the air is humidified, andhigh humidification air is produced. Note that the humidification filter13 has flame retardant characteristics and is less likely to burn in theevent of a fire in the aircraft, for example. The humidification filter13 may also have corrosion resistance characteristics. Since the water Wevaporates from the surface portions of the humidification filter 13 andat least the required humidity is maintained, continuous electrostaticatomization during long flights is possible.

Note that configurations are possible in which a differenthumidification device is provided in place of the humidification filter13. For example, a vibration-type humidifier or a heating-typehumidifier may be used.

The first air flow path 210 extends from a first end, namely an airsuction port 21 a, to a second end 21 b that connects to the firstventilation hole 11 of the water container 10. The first air flow path210 suctions air through the air suction port 21 a in accordance withthe air flow generated by the fan 90, and sends the air to the firstventilation hole 11 of the water container 10. This suctioned air is lowhumidity air A1 that is insufficient for condensation water production.

The second air flow path 220 extends from a third end 22 a that connectsto the second ventilation hole 12 of the water container 10 to a fourthend, namely an air exhaust port 22 b. The second air flow path 220 sendsthe air A2 that was humidified in the water container 10 from the secondventilation hole 12 to the electrostatic atomization unit 70 inaccordance with the air flow generated by the fan 90. Furthermore, thesecond air flow path 220 sends the air A3 that contains chargedparticulate water produced by the electrostatic atomization unit 70 tothe air exhaust port 22 b, and discharges the air A3 out of theapparatus.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the duct member 30 (example of the ductmember) is an integrally molded part, and includes a first duct 31 and asecond duct 32. The first duct 31 connects to the main body portion 1 aand the first ventilation hole 11 of the water container 10. The firstduct 31 forms a portion of the first air flow path 210. The second duct32 connects to the main body portion 1 a and the second ventilation hole12 of water container 10. The second duct 32 forms a portion of thesecond air flow path 220. As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 5, the firstduct 31 and the second duct 32 respectively include open ends 31 a and32 a. The open ends 31 a and 32 a each have a hook-shaped cross-section.The open ends 31 a and 32 a respectively include abutting surfaces 31 band 32 b that face the side of the water container 10 that is attachedto the main body portion 1 a. The abutting surfaces 31 b and 32 b abutagainst step portions formed in corresponding portions of the main bodyportion 1 a. Specifically, a configuration is provided in which thesurfaces of the duct member 30 and the main body portion 1 a abutagainst each other in a direction crossing or in a directionsubstantially orthogonal to the air flow direction. Due to thisconfiguration, a structure can be formed in which the water W in thewater container 10 is less likely to leak from the boundary portionbetween the duct member 30 and the main body portion 1 a.

The electrostatic atomization unit 70 (example of the electrostaticatomization unit) is disposed on the second air flow path 220. As iscommonly known, the electrostatic atomization unit 70 includes, forexample, a cooler, a water application electrode, and a counterelectrode (all not illustrated in the drawings). High voltage is appliedto the water application electrode and the counter electrode, and thecooler cools the water application electrode. As a result, the water inthe high humidity air A2 condensates on the electrode and chargedparticulate water is produced. Air A3 that contains the chargedparticulate water is discharged out of the apparatus through the airexhaust port 22 b.

The control unit 80 includes, for example, a processor such as a centralprocessing unit (CPU). The control unit 80 controls the operations ofthe electrostatic atomization unit 70, the fan 90 (described later), andthe like in accordance with a program stored in memory.

The fan 90 (example of the air flow generation unit) generates an airflow that causes air to flow through the first air flow path 210,through the container 10, and through the second air flow path 220. Dueto the operation of the fan 90, the air is sent sequentially from theair suction port 21 a to the first air flow path 210, the watercontainer 10, the electrostatic atomization unit 70, and the exhaustport 22 b. Note that the fan 90 is not limited to being disposed at theposition illustrated in FIG. 1. For example, the fan 90 may be disposedat a position near the air suction port 31 a, or may be disposed at aposition before the air exhaust port 22 b. Moreover, the air flowgeneration device is not limited to the fan 90, and other devices andmethods that generate an air flow may be used.

1-1-2 Configuration of Container Detachment Mechanism

Various equipment is installed in the aircraft, and space is limited.Among this equipment, there may be electronic devices that could faildue to drops of water that adhere as a result of water intrusion orsubmersion. The electrostatic atomizing apparatus 1 of the presentdisclosure is a device that handles water, and the water is replenishedregularly. As such, the water container 10 has a structure that enablesthe water container 10 to be detached from the main body portion 1 a ofthe electrostatic atomizing apparatus 1. When the water container 10 isto be removed from or attached to the main body portion 1 a, the watercontainer 10 is cut off from the duct member 30. Consequently, there isa possibility of the water W in the water container 10 leaking out.

The electrostatic atomizing apparatus 1 according to the presentdisclosure includes the container detachment mechanism 50 illustrated inFIGS. 3 to 6 and described below and, as such, water leakage is lesslikely to occur when attaching and detaching the water container 10.

The container detachment mechanism 50 (example of the containerdetachment mechanism) moves the duct member 30 up and down with respectto the water container 10 and, when the water container 10 is attachedto the main body portion 1 a, creates a state in which the duct member30 is in pressure contact with the water container 10. Specifically, asillustrated in FIGS. 3 to 6, the container detachment mechanism 50includes a spring 51 (example of the first elastic member) disposedbetween the main body portion 1 a and the duct member 30, a protrusion35 (example of the first engaging portion) formed on the lower portionof the duct member 30, and a recess 15 (example of the second engagingportion) formed in the upper portion 101 of the container main body 10a.

FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate a state in which the water container 10 ismounted on the main body portion 1 a, that is, a state in which theelectrostatic atomizing apparatus 1 is operable. FIG. 4 illustrates a YZcross-section of the water container 10 depicted in FIG. 3. The spring51 has urging force that acts toward the water container 10 side, thatis, that acts in the Z-axis negative direction. As illustrated in FIG.4, the protrusion 35 protrudes from the lower (Z-axis negative side)surface of the duct member 30. The recess 15 is formed in the upperportion 101 of the container main body 10 a and is concave in the Z-axisnegative direction. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the protrusion 35 and therecess 15 are formed long in the X-axis direction along the longitudinaldirection of the container main body 10 a. While the water container 10is mounted on the main body portion 1 a, the protrusion 35 is housed inand engaged with the recess 15. At this time, the spring 51 is in astate compressed in the Z-axis positive direction, against the urgingforce. Due to the urging force of the spring 51, the duct member 30 andthe water container 10 are brought into close contact with each other,and the protrusion 35 engages with the recess 15. As a result,displacement of the water container 10 is less likely to occur, even inthe case of a degree of vibration. Thus, water leakage such as thatcaused by the water container 10 being removed from the duct member 30can be prevented.

Note that a configuration is possible in which a recess is provided inthe duct member 30 and a protrusion is provided on the water container10 side.

A cushion material 39 (example of the second elastic member) is disposedbetween the duct member 30 and the water container 10. The cushionmaterial 39 is disposed between the first duct 31 and the surroundingsof the first ventilation hole 11, and between the second duct 32 and thesurroundings of the second ventilation hole 12. The cushion material 39improves the adhesion of the water container 10 to the duct member 30and, as a result water leakage can be effectively prevented.

1-2 Operations

1-2-1 Operations of Electrostatic Atomizing Apparatus

In an electrostatic atomizing method using the electrostatic atomizingapparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the airA1 suctioned through the air suction port 21 a by the air flow generatedby the fan 90 flows through the first air flow path 210 and isintroduced into the water container 10 in which the water W is stored.The air A1 is humidified as a result of passing through the watercontainer 10. The humidified air A2 is exhausted from the watercontainer 10. In the electrostatic atomization unit 70, chargedparticulate water is produced by causing water in the humidified air A2to condensate on an electrode and applying voltage to the electrode. Theair A3 that contains the charged particulate water is exhausted throughthe air exhaust port 22 b.

1-2-2 Detachment Operation of Container Detachment Mechanism

FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate a state when the water container 10 is removedfrom the main body portion 1 a, that is, a state in which theelectrostatic atomizing apparatus 1 is not operating. In FIG. 6, whenthe water container 10 is pulled in the Y-axis positive direction, theprotrusion 35 of the duct member 30 separates from the recess 15 in thetop surface of the container main body 10 a, and becomes seated on aflat portion of the top surface that is not recessed. As a result, theduct member 30 is pressed in the Z-axis positive direction and pressesthe spring 51 up. As a result, the spring 51 compressed further againstthe urging force. When the water container 10 is further pulled in theY-axis positive direction, the water container 10 separates from theduct member 30 and can be removed from the main body portion 1 a. Whenthe water container 10 is removed, the duct member 30 moves in theZ-axis negative direction due to the urging force of the spring 51 orthe weight of the duct member 30 itself. After the water W in theremoved water container 10 has been replenished, the water container 10is attached to the main body portion 1 a. As illustrated in FIG. 6, atthis time, when the water container 10 is pressed in the Y-axis negativedirection, the duct member 30 is pressed up and becomes seated on thetop surface of the container main body 10 a against the urging force ofthe spring 51. When the water container 10 is pressed further in theY-axis negative direction, the protrusion 35 mates with the recess 15.Thus, the water container 10 is attached to the main body portion 1 a asillustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4.

1-3 Features

In low humidity environments such as in the cabins of aircraft flying athigh altitudes, the humidity required to produce condensation watercannot be reached and, thus, it is not possible to obtain condensationwater. Alternatively, the condensation water freezes due to intensecooling on the endothermic surface and, thus, it is not possible toobtain condensation water. This leads to the problem of not being ableto perform electrostatic atomization.

The electrostatic atomizing apparatus 1 or the electrostatic atomizingmethod according to Embodiment 1 causes the low humidity air A1suctioned through the air suction port 21 a to pass through the watercontainer 10, thereby humidifying the air A1, causes the humidified airA2 to pass through the electrostatic atomization unit 70, and exhauststhe air A3 containing the charged particulate water. As such, even ifthe outside air that is taken in is low humidity air, humidified air canbe constantly delivered to the electrostatic atomization unit 70. This,the condensation water necessary for electrostatic atomization can beproduced, and electrostatic atomization can be performed even in lowhumidity environments.

The electrostatic atomizing apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1includes the duct member 30 and the container detachment mechanism 50.The duct member 30 includes the first duct 31 that connects to the firstventilation hole 11 and that forms a portion of the first air flow path210, and the second duct 32 that connects to the second ventilation hole12 and that forms a portion of the second air flow path 220. Thecontainer detachment mechanism 50 presses the duct member 30 against thewater container 10 that is attached to the main body portion 1 a. As aresult of this configuration, water leakage from the water container 10can be prevented in cases in which, during the operation of theelectrostatic atomizing apparatus 1, vibration occurs or the aircraftcannot maintain a horizontal posture such as during take-off andlanding. Moreover, since the duct member 30 can be moved up and down,the water container 10 is easier to attach and detach.

With the electrostatic atomizing apparatus 1 or the electrostaticatomizing method according to Embodiment 1, for a 24 hour flight, it ispossible to perform electrostatic atomization with 100 ml or less ofwater. This is because only the insufficient portion of the necessarywater is replenished, based on the humidity contained in the air. Thus,the amount of water can be reduced compared to the direct water supplyelectrostatic atomization as disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 4877410.

In the electrostatic atomizing apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1,the various electronic devices such as the electrostatic atomizationunit 70, the control unit 80, and the fan 90 can be disposed upward fromthe water container 10. As a result of this configuration, even if waterleakage occurs, water is less likely to enter into the electrostaticatomizing apparatus 1, and therefore, it is possible to reduce the riskof electric leaks, short circuits, and the like.

2. Embodiment 2

In Embodiment 2, a water container 10-2 that is detachable from theelectrostatic atomizing apparatus 1 differs from the water container 10of Embodiment 1 in that the water container 10-2 includes lids 111 and112. In the following, the structure and functions of the watercontainer 10-2 that differ from Embodiment 1 are primarily describedwhile referencing FIGS. 7 to 10. Note that constituents that have thesame structures and functions as in Embodiment 1 are marked with thesame reference numerals. The arrow G illustrated in the drawingsindicates the direction of gravity.

2-1 Configuration

As illustrated in FIG. 7, the water container 10-2 includes a containermain body 10 a that holds water W. As in Embodiment 1, the containermain body 10 a includes an upper portion 101, a bottom portion 102, andleft and right container side portions 103 and 104 that connect theupper portion 101 and the bottom portion 102. The water container 10-2includes a first ventilation hole 11 and a second ventilation hole 12that penetrate the upper portion 101 of the container main body 10 a.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, the water container 10-2 includes a first lid111 and a second lid 112. As illustrated in FIG. 8, when viewedplanarly, the first lid 111 and the second lid 112 have round shapes. Asa result of this configuration, the first lid 111 and the second lid 112can close the first ventilation hole 11 and the second ventilation hole12, respectively. It is sufficient that the planar shapes of the firstlid 111 and the second lid 112 match the shapes of the ventilation holes11 and 12. The first lid 111 closes the first ventilation hole 11 due toa change in the surface of the water W when water is stored in thecontainer main body 10 a. The second lid 112 closes the secondventilation hole 12 due to a change in the surface of the water W whenwater is stored in the container main body 10 a.

As illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the first lid 111 includes afulcrum 111 a that is closer to the container side portion 103 than thefirst ventilation hole 11, and the first lid 111 is pivotable around thefulcrum 111 a with respect to the first ventilation hole 11. Likewise,the second lid 112 has a fulcrum 112 a that is closer to the containerside portion 104 than the second ventilation hole 12, and the second lid112 is pivotable around the fulcrum 112 a with respect to the secondventilation hole 12. The first lid 111 and the second lid 112respectively include fulcrums that are closer to the container sideportions 103 and 104, and open and close toward the center of thecontainer main body 10 a.

The first lid 111 and the second lid 112 are formed from a material witha smaller specific gravity than the water W. For example, the first lid111 and the second lid 112 are formed from a resin material or the likethat has a lower density than the water W.

As illustrated in FIGS. 9A and 9B, a rim surrounding the firstventilation hole 11 of the container main body 10 a includes aprotruding edge portion 11 c that protrudes more toward the surface ofthe water W than an inside surface 101 a of the upper portion 101 of thecontainer main body 10 a. The first lid 111 includes a recess 111 c thataccommodates the protruding edge portion 11 c when the first ventilationhole 11 is closed, and an extended portion 111 e that extends outwardfrom the recess 111 c. The extended portion 111 e includes an abuttingsurface 111 f that is capable of abutting against an inside surface 101a of the upper portion 101 of the container main body 10 a when thefirst lid 111 closes the first ventilation hole 11. As illustrated inFIG. 9B, since the abutting surface 111 f abuts against the upperportion 101 of the container main body 10 a, the first lid 111 caneffectively close the first ventilation hole 11. The second lid 112 hasthe same configuration as the first lid 111, and a protruding edgeportion that is the same as the protruding edge portion 11 c is formedon the rim surrounding the second ventilation hole 12 of the containermain body 10 a. As such, description thereof is foregone.

2-2 Operations

FIG. 10A illustrates the water container 10-2 in a normal state, thatis, when installed horizontally. At this time, the first lid 111 pivotsabout the fulcrum 111 a in the opening direction due to the weight ofthe first lid 111, and the portion of the first lid 111 contacting thesurface of the water W floats on the water surface. Likewise, the secondlid 112 pivots about the fulcrum 112 a in the opening direction due tothe weight of the second lid 112, and the portion of the second lid 112contacting the surface of the water W floats on the water surface.

FIG. 10B illustrates the water container 10-2 in a state tilted to theside portion 103 side. At this time, the water W is also tilted to theside portion 103 side and, as such, the surface of the water W rises onthe side portion 103 side. As a result, due to the buoyant force of thewater W, the first lid 111 is pressed, and the first lid 111 pivots inthe direction of closing the first ventilation hole 11. In cases inwhich the water container 10 is tilted further, the first ventilationhole 11 is closed before the water surface reaches the first ventilationhole 11, as illustrated in FIG. 9B. Meanwhile, since second lid 112 isno longer subjected to the buoyant force of the water W due to the watersurface lowering, the second lid 112 is in an open state.

In cases in which the water container 10-2 tilts to the side portion 104side, opposite to the behavior described above, the second lid 112pivots in the closing direction, and the first lid 111 pivots in theopening direction.

2-3 Features

In aircraft and the like, vibration constantly occurs during movementand horizontal posture may by impossible to maintain at take-off andlanding. As such, the water container 10-2 attached to the electrostaticatomizing apparatus 1 tilts, the water W waves or splashes, and thelike. As a result, the surface of the stored water W changes, and thereis a possibility of the water W leaking out through the ventilationholes 11 and 12 of the water container 10-2. This leakage may lead toelectric leaks, short circuits, and the like in the electrostaticatomizing apparatus 1.

However, as described in Embodiment, the ventilation holes 11 and 12 ofthe water container 10-2 are air flow paths and, as such, must remainopen during the operation of the electrostatic atomizing apparatus 1.

The water container 10-2 according to Embodiment 2 includes the lids 111and 112 that are capable of closing or opening the ventilation holes 11and 12 according to changes in the surface of the water W. The lids 111and 112 have the fulcrums 111 a and 112 a that are closer to thecontainer side portions 103 and 104 than to the ventilation holes 11 and12, and the lids 111 and 112 are pivotable around the fulcrums 111 a and112 a with respect to the ventilation holes 11 and 12.

Thus, a configuration is provided in which the surface of the water Wdoes not rise higher than the lids 111 and 112, and the ventilationholes 11 and 12 are closed by the lids 111 and 112 before the watersurface reaches the ventilation holes 11 and 12. Thus, it is possible toprevent the water W from leaking out through the ventilation holes 11and 12 of the water container 10-2, and it is possible to reduce therisk of electric leaks, short circuits, and the like in theelectrostatic atomizing apparatus 1. Meanwhile, since the lids 111 and112 are open in the normal state, the water container 10-2 can securethe air flow path for electrostatic atomization.

Additionally, the electrostatic atomizing apparatus 1 according toEmbodiment 2 has a structure that reduces the possibility of waterleakage. As such, in aircraft environments where there is a plurality ofelectrical equipment in neighboring areas, it is possible to reduce therisk of the occurrence of electric leaks, short circuits, and the likeand improve safety.

2-4 Modification Examples

As illustrated in FIG. 11, a configuration is possible in which thewater container 10-2 includes guides 18 that guide, in accordance withthe pivoting of the first lid 111 and the second lid 112, the ends onthe sides of the first lid 111 and the second lid 112 opposite thefulcrums 111 a and 112 a. As a result of this configuration, the openingand closing operations of the first lid 111 and the second lid 112 canbe more easily controlled, and smooth opening and closing operations canbe performed.

As illustrated in FIG. 12, a configuration is possible in which thefirst lid 111 and the second lid 112 include an expanded portion 19 onthe ends of the sides of the first lid 111 and the second lid 112opposite the fulcrums 111 a and 112 a. As a result of thisconfiguration, the first lid 111 and the second lid 112 will be moreeasily subjected to the buoyant force of the water W and, as such, thewater W can be effectively prevented from flowing above the lids 111 and112.

3. Other Embodiments

The embodiments described above have been given as examples of thetechnology that is disclosed in the present application. However, thetechnology according to the present disclosure is not limited thereto,and changes, substitutions, additions, and omissions can be applied tothe embodiments. Moreover, the constituents described in the embodimentsmay be combined to create new embodiments.

(1) In the embodiments described above, the shapes of the watercontainer 10 or 10-2, the ventilation holes 11 and 12, and the otherconstituents are not limited to the shapes illustrated in the drawings.For example, a configuration is possible in which the container mainbody 10 a has a shape other that a rectangular solid or a cube. Forexample, the container main body 10 a may have a rounded shape. Theshapes of the ventilation holes 11 and 12 are not limited to circular,and may be square, rectangular, or the like.

In the embodiments described above, the number of the ventilation holes11 and 12 of the water container 10 or 10-2 is not limited. The numbersof the ventilation holes 11 and 12 may be one or may be three or more.

(2) In the embodiments described above, the liquid stored in the watercontainer 10 or 10-2 is not limited to the water W. Any other liquidthat can be evaporated may be used.

(3) In the embodiments described above, a water absorbing member may beprovided in the water container 10 or 10-2. The water absorbing memberis, for example, a mass of absorbent cotton, a water absorbing polymer,or the like, and is disposed in the container main body 10 a. The waterabsorbing member prevents the water from moving freely as a liquid. As aresult of this configuration, the water is prevented from splashing inand leaking out of the electrostatic atomizing apparatus 1, even attake-off and landing of the aircraft or when the aircraft vibrates.However, if the water absorbing member absorbs too much of the water andthe water cannot be supplied to the humidification filter 13,humidification will not be possible. Therefore, it is preferable thatthe size and water holding characteristics of the water absorbing memberbe set so that a degree of water can be supplied instead of the waterbeing completely absorbed and retained.(4) In the embodiments described above, the duct member 30 isimplemented as an integrally molded part, but is not limited thereto.For example, a configuration is possible in which the first duct 31 andthe second duct 32 are attached to the main body portion 1 a as separatecomponents. Additionally, a configuration is possible in which the ductmember 30 is not disposed and, for example, a structure is provided inwhich pipe portions, formed by extending rim portions of the ventilationholes 11 and 12 of the water container 10 or 10-2, are directly attachedto the air flow paths of the main body portion 1 a. Alternatively, astructure may be provided in which pipes, formed by extending rimportions of the second end 21 b and the third end 22 a of the air flowpaths of the main body portion 1 a, are directly attached to theventilation holes 11 and 12 of the water container 10 or 10-2.(5) The structure for preventing water leakage while the water container10 or 10-2 is removed from the electrostatic atomizing apparatus 1 isnot limited to that described in the embodiments described above. Forexample, a configuration is possible in which a cap, a check valve, or aselective membrane that is gas-permeable (including water vapor), butnot liquid-permeable, is provided at the connecting portion between themain body portion 1 a (or the duct member 30) and the water container 10or 10-2.(6) The water W stored in the water container 10 or 10-2 may corrodewhen exposed to air for an extended period of time. The duct member 30may have a removable structure that accompanies the removal of the watercontainer 10 or 10-2 and/or the humidification filter 13. As a result ofthis configuration, not only the water container 10 or 10-2, but alsothe duct member 30 to which corroded water has adhered can be replaced,and an odor-free and corrosion-free state can be maintained.Additionally, the removed water container 10 or 10-2 and the duct member30 may be cleaned and reused/reinstalled. In this case, the removedwater container 10 or 10-2 and the duct member 30 can be usedrepeatedly, and costs associated with facilities and equipment can bereduced.

Additionally, a configuration is possible in which the container mainbody 10 a of the water container 10 or 10-2, the humidification filter13, and the duct member 30 are individually removed and replaced ordisposed of at different times.

(7) In the embodiments described above, an example is described thatfocuses on an aircraft as the space in which the electrostatic atomizingapparatus 1 is used, but the space in which the electrostatic atomizingapparatus 1 is used is not limited thereto. For example, theelectrostatic atomizing apparatus 1 may be installed in a train, a bus,a marine vessel, or other vehicle. The electrostatic atomizing apparatus1 or the water container 10-2 according to the embodiments describedabove can demonstrate the advantageous benefits described above evenwhen used in other vehicles in which vibration occurs such as trains,marine vessels, and the like, or in spaces with low humidityenvironments.(8) The water container 10 that includes the container detachmentmechanism 50 and the water container 10-2 that includes the lids 111 and112 according to the embodiments described above are not limited tobeing used in the electrostatic atomizing apparatus 1. The watercontainer 10 and the water container 10-2 are usable in devices such ashumidifiers or air cleaners that include a container that stores aliquid such as the water W, for example.

GENERAL INTERPRETATION OF TERMS

In understanding the scope of the present disclosure, the term“configured” as used herein to describe a component, section, or a partof a device includes hardware and/or software that is constructed and/orprogrammed to carry out the desired function.

In understanding the scope of the present disclosure, the term“comprising” and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to beopen ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features,elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps, but do not excludethe presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups,integers and/or steps. The foregoing also applies to words havingsimilar meanings such as the terms “including,” “having,” and theirderivatives. Also, the terms “part,” “section,” “portion,” “member,” or“element” when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of asingle part or a plurality of parts. Also as used herein to describe theabove embodiment(s), the following directional terms “forward”,“rearward”, “above”, “downward”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “below” and“transverse” as well as any other similar directional terms refer tothose directions of a device.

Terms that are expressed as “means-plus function” in the claims shouldinclude any structure that can be utilized to carry out the function ofthat part of the present disclosure. Finally, terms of degree such as“substantially,” “about,” and “approximately” as used herein mean areasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the endresult is not significantly changed. For example, these terms can beconstrued as including a deviation of at least ±5% of the modified termif this deviation would not negate the meaning of the word it modifies.

While only selected exemplary embodiments have been chosen to illustratethe present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the artfrom this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be madeherein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined inthe appended claims. For example, the size, shape, location ororientation of the various components can be changed as needed and/ordesired. Components that are shown directly connected or contacting eachother can have intermediate structures disposed between them. Thefunctions of one element can be performed by two, and vice versa. Thestructures and functions of one embodiment can be adopted in anotherembodiment. It is not necessary for all advantages to be present in aparticular embodiment at the same time. Every feature which is uniquefrom the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, alsoshould be considered a separate description of further inventions by theapplicant, including the structural and/or functional concepts embodiedby such feature(s). Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the exemplaryembodiments according to the present invention are provided forillustration only, and not for the purpose of limiting the invention asdefined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

What is claimed:
 1. An electrostatic atomizing apparatus, comprising: amain body portion; a container that is detachable from the main bodyportion and is capable of storing a liquid, the container including afirst ventilation hole and a second ventilation hole; a first air flowpath including a first end and a second end, the first end including anair suction port, the second end connecting to the first ventilationhole; a second air flow path including a third end and a fourth end, thethird end connecting to the second ventilation hole, the fourth endincluding an air exhaust port; an electrostatic atomization unitdisposed on the second air flow path; an air flow generation unit forgenerating an air flow that causes air to flow through the first airflow path, through the container, and through the second air flow path;a duct member including a first duct and a second duct, the first ductconnecting to the first ventilation hole and forming a portion of thefirst air flow path, the second duct connecting to the secondventilation hole and forming a portion of the second air flow path; anda container detachment mechanism for pressing the duct member againstthe container attached to the main body portion.
 2. The electrostaticatomizing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first ventilationhole and the second ventilation hole are open in a same direction. 3.The electrostatic atomizing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein thecontainer detachment mechanism is capable of moving the duct member backand forth with respect to the container attached to the main bodyportion.
 4. The electrostatic atomizing apparatus according to claim 1,wherein the container detachment mechanism includes a first elasticmember that is capable of urging the duct member toward the containerattached to the main body portion.
 5. The electrostatic atomizingapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the container detachmentmechanism includes a first engaging portion and a second engagingportion, the first engaging portion includes a protrusion or a recessthat is provided in the duct member, the second engaging portionincludes a recess or a protrusion that is provided in the container, andwhen attaching the main body portion to the container, the firstengaging member engages with the second engaging member.
 6. Theelectrostatic atomizing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein thefirst duct and the second duct each include an open end having ahook-shaped cross-section, the open end includes an abutting surface,and the abutting surface faces the container attached to the main bodyportion and abuts against the main body portion in a direction crossinga direction of the air flow.
 7. The electrostatic atomizing apparatusaccording to claim 1, further comprising a second elastic memberdisposed between the duct member and the container.
 8. The electrostaticatomizing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the second elasticmember is disposed between the first duct and surroundings of the firstventilation hole, and between the second duct and surroundings of thesecond ventilation hole.
 9. The electrostatic atomizing apparatusaccording to claim 1, further comprising a humidifier for humidifyingthe air that passes through the container.
 10. The electrostaticatomizing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the duct member is anintegrally molded part.